Peperonata or Bell Pepper Dish

To prepare a delicious side dish or a savory appetizer, we start with the basic ingredients. The first step is to take care of the vegetables. We peel the onion, slicing it thinly in a julienne style. This will bring a sweet aroma and an added texture to our dish. Next, we take the bell peppers, wash them well under a stream of cold water, and slice them into thin strips, choosing our favorite colors for a vibrant appearance. The tomatoes, which are essential for adding juiciness to the dish, are carefully peeled and then chopped finely, making sure to keep the juice that will be released during cooking.

In a heated skillet over medium heat, we pour a little olive oil, letting it heat up. We add the onion and bell peppers, sautéing them for a few minutes until the onion becomes translucent and the peppers slightly change texture. The garlic, chopped finely or crushed, is now added, along with a bay leaf if you want to enhance the flavor of the dish. We stir constantly to prevent the vegetables from sticking and burning, allowing them to sauté together for about 5-6 minutes until all the ingredients release their flavors.

After this interval, we carefully remove the bay leaf and add the chopped tomatoes, mixing well to incorporate them into the composition. We cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for 6-7 minutes, stirring occasionally so that the vegetables do not stick. It is important to monitor the process, as we want the tomatoes to soften and form a consistent sauce, but not too fluid.

After some of the liquid released by the tomatoes has evaporated, we lift the lid and let it simmer for a few more minutes so that the mixture becomes more concentrated. We season with salt and pepper to taste to enhance the flavors of the vegetables. The dish is now ready to be served. We can enjoy it as is, on a slice of crispy toasted bread or on a piece of fresh bread straight from the oven. It also pairs perfectly as a side dish next to a juicy grill, a delicious steak, or alongside a portion of polenta and feta cheese. This recipe is not only simple but also extremely versatile, making it ideal for any occasion. Enjoy!